Tea trees primarily grow in the warmer regions of Australia.
Specifically, tea trees (primarily Melaleuca alternifolia, the species most associated with tea tree oil) are native to and thrive in tropical and subtropical swampy areas of Australia, where they often grow wild. You'll find different species of Melaleuca (tea tree) with variations in leaf and flower characteristics across these regions. These trees are well-suited to moist environments and can become an attractive addition to gardens.